He shared this big moment with brother Franz.
It’s no longer rare to see siblings in FIBA competitions. But one doesn’t always see brothers hoist the Naismith trophy in a FIBA World Cup.
Count the Wagner brothers Mo and Franz among the few.
On Sunday, the two helped Germany capture its first-ever championship after an 83-77 win over Serbia that had all the trappings of a classic on Sunday.
Asked about sharing the court and the conquest with his brother Franz, Mo put both his arms on his waist and flashed a playful grin.
“I’m so sick about answering questions for my brother, man,” he told reporters shortly after the match at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Of course he was kidding. Sharing big moments like this with a family is something he will forever cherish.
“He’s amazing. My mom cried too. It’s so cool to share with my family. We’re so privileged,” he said. “I don’t realize that this is the life I’m living. Very grateful for that.”
More importantly, the Die Mannschaft, who had an immaculate 8-0 run in quadrennial meet, achieved what no other German team has done before.
“This is really cool for German basketball. It’s not a bout me. It’s about us,” he said as Germany rode the heroics of Dennis Schroder.
“In the grand scheme of things, this means a lot for German basketball culture, having the feeling of something bigger than yourself is so valuable and awesome. I’m just grateful.”
Noah Lyles, who received the ire of some fans after blasting NBA champions which call themselves “World Champions,” is impressed, right?
“Dare I say, World Champion. Dare I say,” he said with a smile.
(GM)